Somali, AU Forces Thwart Al-Shabaab Assault in Lower Shabelle

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somali troops, backed by Ugandan forces under the African Union mission, repelled a major Al-Shabaab attack on the villages of Sabiib and Anoole in the Lower Shabelle region, killing at least 18 militants, officials said.

The assault, launched at dawn, was met with swift resistance by the Somali National Army (SNA) and African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) troops.

Intense clashes erupted as insurgents attempted to overrun the area but were forced to retreat under heavy fire.

“Our forces responded decisively and prevented the militants from breaching the villages,” the Ministry of Defence said in a statement. “The operation resulted in significant militant losses and demonstrated the increasing capability of Somali-led security efforts.”

Four government soldiers were killed in the fighting, and seven others sustained injuries. The wounded received immediate treatment. Military operations continue in pursuit of fleeing militants.

The government also credited international partners for providing vital aerial support, which helped weaken the extremist group’s offensive capabilities.

The Al-Shabaab militant group remains active across parts of Somalia but has suffered territorial losses in recent offensives led by Somali forces and their allies.

The federal government reaffirmed its commitment to defeating terrorism and securing long-term stability, saying this latest victory underscores national progress in reclaiming territory from insurgent control.